Original: Brocade Gown, c.1775

Something that's aged well over 250 years: French brocade gown, c.1775, in the MET . The bright fabric initially made this gown catch my eye. According to the Met's write-up, the attached bodice front with button closure (rather than a separate stomacher piece pinned to the overgown) is what makes this garment unique. While I still find panniers a bit ridiculous, they do show off the material very…